HC Deb 21 February 1940 vol 357 c1366W
Mr. Shinwell

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider an approach to the League of Nations, or President Roosevelt, or any other means open to him, with a view to offering mediation in the present dispute between Finland and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics?

Mr. Butler

The mediation of the Assembly of the League of Nations was offered on 12th December in the circumstances described in Command Paper 6160. It was accepted by Finland but rejected by the Soviet Government. It is, of course, open to the Finnish and the Soviet Governments at any time to invite or to accept the mediation of any third party, if they see fit to do so. His Majesty's Government, however, have no authority to intervene between a third party and the two belligerent Governments